Bathing has been a cherished ritual throughout history, not only for its cleansing properties but also for its ability to soothe the soul. The practice of taking different types of baths has evolved over time, with each variation offering unique benefits and purposes. In this blog post, we delve into the world of baths and discover how to create a gorgeous spa like space and look at the different types of products to use, and their specific benefits and purposes.
Transform Your Bathroom into a Tranquil Oasis
Before we even get into the intricacies of what constitutes a great bath, let’s have a look at some simple steps to transform your bathroom into a tranquil oasis. From the right lighting to calming music, candles, and other elements, let’s embark on a journey of rejuvenation and serenity.
Add Natural Elements
Bringing nature indoors can create a refreshing and calming atmosphere. Consider adding potted plants, such as bamboo, spider plants, ferns or peace lilies to your bathroom. These plants not only purify the air but also contribute to a serene environment. Display natural elements like seashells, pebbles, or small bowls of dried flowers to create a connection with the outdoors. Surrounding yourself with nature-inspired elements can help ground you and create a more soothing bathing experience.
Soften the Space with Textiles
Enhance the comfort and relaxation of your bathroom space by incorporating soft and luxurious textiles. Invest in plush towels, bathrobes, and mats that envelop you in cosiness. If you have space, consider adding a cushioned seating area or a small stool where you can sit and unwind. Install a towel warmer to treat yourself to the comfort of a warm towel after your bath. These small touches can elevate your bathing experience and create a spa-like atmosphere.
Set the Mood with Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role that sets the mood to create a relaxing ambiance in your bathroom. Soft, warm lighting can instantly soothe your senses and induce a sense of calm. Consider installing dimmer switches, or if you’re renting, use low-wattage or warm-white bulbs to achieve a gentle glow. Soft candlelight or strategically placed fairy lights can add a touch of magic and tranquility to your bathing space too!
Embrace a Calming Soundscape
Create a playlist of soothing tunes or nature sounds that resonate with you to create a calming soundscape while you soak. Music has the power to transport us to a state of deep relaxation and classical, instrumental, ambient, or nature-inspired melodies work wonders in creating a calming atmosphere. Invest in a waterproof Bluetooth speaker to enjoy your favourite tunes while soaking in the tub. The gentle sounds will help you unwind, block out distractions, and enhance your overall relaxation. For next level relaxation, try BathCalm’s very own Bath Mediation Soaks that have guided meditation and meditation music, accessible via QR code. Each meditation was created to match each essential oil blend. Blissful!
Add Warmth Romance and Relaxation with Candles
Adding candles is a wonderful way to bring warmth, relaxation and romance to your bath experience.
If you’re using any scent in your bath, try to use non-scented candles so that they don’t compete with your bath scent and become overwhelming. Pillar candles and votive candles are ideal in a bathroom setting!
Now that you’ve set the mood, let’s look at what goes in your bath.
The Power of Scent
Scent can have a profound impact on our mood and well-being. Consider incorporating aromatherapy into your bathing routine by using scented candles, essential oils, or bath products with natural fragrances. Lavender, chamomile, jasmine, and eucalyptus are popular choices for their relaxing properties. You can use an essential oil diffuser to fill the air with soothing aromas, promoting a sense of tranquility and rejuvenation.
Essential oils
Essential oils have been used for centuries due to their therapeutic properties. A few drops of essential oils, such as lavender for relaxation or bergamot for stress relief, can elevate your bath to a whole new level.
Each oil possesses unique properties, such as lavender for calming and stress relief or eucalyptus for respiratory support. Aromatherapy baths can help alleviate anxiety, uplift your mood, and create a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own bathroom.
Ensure that you select high-quality, pure essential oils before adding them to your bath, and don’t overdo the drops, they are strong! Always follow the directions on the label and research before you using them if you’re pregnant.
Epsom Salts
Epsom salts, also known as magnesium sulphate heptahydrate, are a versatile and widely used compound with numerous benefits and applications. Despite their name, Epsom salts are not actually salts in the traditional sense, but rather a mineral compound composed of magnesium, sulphur, and oxygen. They derived their name from the town of Epsom in Surrey, England, where the compound was first discovered in mineral-rich springs.
When dissolved in warm bath water, the magnesium and sulphate ions in Epsom salts are readily absorbed by the skin. This absorption process can help promote relaxation, relieve muscle tension, and alleviate stress. Many people find soaking in an Epsom salt bath to be a soothing and therapeutic experience, particularly after a long and tiring day. Opt for Epsom salts infused with essential oils to enhance the therapeutic effects and create a truly immersive experience. A word of caution: If you’re using a bio-cycle or septic system, steer clear of pink Himalayan salt. It can damage the system’s bio culture and subsequent plant growth in the soakage trench area.
Bath Bombs
A bath bomb is a bunch of fizzy fun that adds a touch of magic to your bath. It’s a billion dollar industry which attests to their popularity! For a genuine aromatherapy day spa experience, look for bath bombs that contain essential oils, moisturising and natural ingredients that nourish your skin. Many of us have had a bad experience with colour staining, so if you’re buying home-made bath bombs with bright colours, ask what emulsifier they’ve used to mitigate any staining. If they can’t answer you, don’t buy it, it’s that simple, or you’ll spend the next 3 hours scrubbing colour off your tub!
Herbal Baths: Natural Healing and Aromatherapy
Herbal baths have a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations that recognised the healing properties of plants. These baths involve adding various herbs, flowers, and essential oils to the water, infusing it with their beneficial properties. Different herbs offer different benefits, such as soothing lavender for relaxation, invigorating rosemary for mental clarity, or chamomile for stress relief. Herbal baths can provide aromatherapy benefits, where the scents of the plants have a calming or invigorating effect on the mind, promoting a sense of well-being.
Preparing a herbal bath is relatively simple. Typically, a combination of dried herbs or flowers is placed in a muslin bag or directly added to a warm bath. The herbs can be left to steep for a few minutes or longer, depending on personal preference.
Herbal baths offer a natural and holistic approach to relaxation, wellness, and skincare. The infusion of herbs in warm water can provide numerous benefits, from promoting relaxation and reducing stress to addressing specific concerns such as congestion. Whether it’s for self-care or to target specific issues, herbal baths provide a rejuvenating and aromatic experience that nurtures both the body and mind.
Bath Accessories: Loofahs and Bath Brushes
Loofahs are exfoliating sponges that help remove dead skin cells and improve blood circulation. They are a great addition to your bath accessory range! They come in various sizes and textures, allowing you to choose one that suits your skin type and exfoliation preferences.
We recommend that you use a loofah twice a week at the most. If you are unsure, consult with your dermatologist or skin care consultant for further information.
Make sure you keep your skin in tip top shape and keep bacteria OUT and clean your loofah weekly. After use, rinse out and keep the loofah in a dry environment with plenty of airflow for longer life. You can put it in the dishwasher or washing machine on a gentle cycle. Or just simply wash it with soap and rinse thoroughly with water. We also recommend that you replace your loofah every three to four weeks. If you notice any mould or discoloration, discard the loofah immediately.
Natural loofahs can be composted at the end of their life.
Bath Brushes
Bath brushes are an ideal alternative for dry brushing or gently exfoliating your body before or during a bath. They can help stimulate circulation, promote lymphatic drainage, and leave your skin feeling rejuvenated. Look for brushes with natural bristles and long handles for easy reach.
Create an Opportunity to Reconnect with Yourself
Indulging in different types of baths is more than a simple act of cleansing. It is an opportunity to reconnect with yourself, find solace, and enhance your overall well-being. Experimenting with various baths allows you to discover your personal preferences and tailor your bathing experience to suit your specific needs. So, carve out some “me-time,” draw a bath, and embark on a journey of relaxation, healing, and rejuvenation.
A Spa-like experience is easily achievable!
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